Everyone has seen some form of violence on television, whether it be from a movie, news, or just a weekly show. But did you know that by the time a child is eighteen years old, he or she will witness on television 200,000 acts of violence including 40,000 murders?
It is proven that media violence does, in fact, affect children's behavior. (As Stated by the American Medical Association, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Psychological Association, American Academy of Family Physicians, and American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry)
Media is known to effect young children in many ways. Children are more easily impressionable and have a harder time distinguishing between fantasy and reality. They cannot easily discern motives for violence and they learn by observing and imitating. Many will increase anti-social and aggressive behavior throughout their growth. Children may also become less sensitive to violence and those who suffer from violence. They may view the world as violent and mean, becoming more fearful of being a victim of violence. They may believe that they constantly need to look to defend themselves. Unfortunately, children will desire to see more violence in entertainment and real life. Children will view violence as an acceptable way to settle conflicts.
What about movies and TV shows? Many studies done on the affects of violence in television and movies conclude that children who watch significant amounts of television and movie violence are more likely to have aggressive behavior, attitudes, and values. Aggressive behavior on screen that lacks consequences, portrayed as justified, or is rewarded will have a greater effect on children. When the violence is committed by an attractive or charismatic hero, with whom the child identifies, the effect of that violence will be greater. The child's attention is focused on the violence on the screen, causing the child to be engaged or aroused. If the child sees the violence in the show as being realistic, reflecting real life, the impact will be greater.
Any solutions? Personally, I was allowed to watch violent movies and news stories when I was younger. I do not ever feel the need to hurt others, but not all cases are like mine. Many times, it depends on the child's surroundings and what they experience. I do believe that with the right parenting, violence does not have to have an effect on children. As for censorship, I think our government can only get so involved but in the end, they cannot completely control what America's children watch. There have been steps taken to resolve this increasingly problematic issue. L.O.V.E.3 (Lets Overcome Violence through Education Empathy and Empowerment) is one of many groups created to prevent violence in youth. This is a serious issue and steps are being taken to prevent violence in youth.
Fireball
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